Emptying your swimming pool

The right way to dispose of pool water

Don’t drain pool water into the stormwater system - Stormwater drains carry rainwater straight into local rivers and streams, without treatment — so anything that goes down there ends up in the environment.

If you’re connected to the wastewater network - You can safely dispose of your pool or spa water through your wastewater plumbing. The rate discharged needs to be controlled at 2 litres per second or it may cause wastewater to overflow in the network, becoming a risk to public health. The wastewater network sends water to a treatment plant where pollutants are removed.

If you’re not connected to the wastewater network - You’ll need to use land disposal or soakage, which means letting the water soak into the ground on your property. Check first that your land isn’t prone to slips or erosion and contact Waikato Regional Council if you’re unsure about the best option for your site.

For pool overflow water - Wherever possible, direct overflow onto land where it can soak in naturally — not into drains

Reduce how often you need to drain your pool

Keep your pool’s chemical balance and filtration system in good condition year-round. This helps you avoid having to drain your pool as often.

If you use copper-based algaecides, try lower-toxicity options first, and only use copper if other products don’t work.

Some types of algae can upset the balance of the wastewater treatment plant. If you are unsure, contact us before draining your pool.

Draining your pool

When draining your pool, if possible, always use the wastewater network to drain your pool. You can do this through:

• Your pool’s plumbing,
• A gully trap, or
• A sink.

Drain slowly — no faster than 2 litres per second.
If you need to discharge water faster than that, please contact Council first, as you’ll need consent to do so.

Trade waste

Trade waste does not relate to residential properties only commercial, however residents should ensure that their discharge always meets the Wastewater and Trade Waste Bylaw.

If a trade waste consent is required contact the Trade Waste Team on 0800 356 358 or email tradewaste@colabsolutions.govt.nz.

For more information on trade waste visit Trade waste - Waipā District Council to download an application and access to the Wastewater and Trade Waste Bylaw.

Land disposal or soakage

If you plan to dispose of water by letting it soak into the ground, check first that your area isn’t prone to slips or erosion — if it is, this method isn’t suitable.

Let the water sit for a week without adding any chemicals. When you’re ready to discharge or irrigate it, make sure the water won’t flow into stormwater drains, natural waterways, or onto neighbouring properties.

Avoid creating puddles or other nuisance conditions and ensure the water temperature is below 25°C before you begin.

Contact Waikato Regional Council if you’re unsure about the best option for your site.